---
title: Make a ruler mould with Inkscape
slug: make-a-ruler-mould-with-inkscape
description: Educational resources vary globally. This guide demonstrates using Inkscape to design a laser-cut ruler mold for injection molding.
tags: ["other machine","mould","research","product"]
category: Moulds
difficulty: Easy
time: < 1 week
location: London, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland (the)
---
import { Image } from 'astro:assets'
# Make a ruler mould with Inkscape
<Image src={import('./ruler.jpg')} alt="Make a ruler mould with Inkscape" />
Educational resources vary globally. This guide demonstrates using Inkscape to design a laser-cut ruler mold for injection molding.

User Location: London, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland (the)
## Steps
### Step 1: Download Inkscape

- Visit [Inkscape](https://inkscape.org/) and choose the appropriate version for your operating system.
- Follow the installation guide provided.

- A reference of intermediary and final files created through this tutorial is attached, allowing you to test or modify them according to your requirements.


<Image src={import('./1_Inkscape_website.PNG')} alt="1_Inkscape_website.PNG" />


<Image src={import('./1_Inkscape_download_page.PNG')} alt="1_Inkscape_download_page.PNG" />

### Step 2: Create a blank document

- Open Inkscape; a new document will appear.
- Adjust the document size via File > Document Properties.
- For this project, we selected A4 (8.27 x 11.69 inches), but you may opt for another size.
- Save the document in an easily accessible location.


<Image src={import('./2_New_Document.PNG')} alt="2_New_Document.PNG" />


<Image src={import('./2_Document_properties_dropdown.png')} alt="2_Document_properties_dropdown.png" />


<Image src={import('./2_Document_properties_menu.PNG')} alt="2_Document_properties_menu.PNG" />

### Step 3: Generate the ruler

### Vector Ruler Generator

Vector Ruler Generator is a free, open-source tool designed for creating rulers for etching or laser cutting into various materials.

- Visit [robbbb.github.io/VectorRuler](https://robbbb.github.io/VectorRuler)
- Customize your ruler with desired parameters, such as including both centimeters and inches (15 cm or 5.9 in)
- Save your settings with clear file names for easy identification


<Image src={import('./3_Vector_Ruler_Generator.PNG')} alt="3_Vector_Ruler_Generator.PNG" />


<Image src={import('./3_Vector_Ruler_Generator_centimetre_settings.PNG')} alt="3_Vector_Ruler_Generator_centimetre_settings.PNG" />


<Image src={import('./3_Vector_Ruler_Generator_inch_settings.PNG')} alt="3_Vector_Ruler_Generator_inch_settings.PNG" />

### Step 4: Import the files

1. Go to File > Import and choose the desired file.
2. A dialog box with details will appear.
3. Click OK to view the files.
4. Repeat the process for the other unit of measurement.


<Image src={import('./4_Import_a_file.png')} alt="4_Import_a_file.png" />


<Image src={import('./4_Dialogue_Screen.png')} alt="4_Dialogue_Screen.png" />


<Image src={import('./4_Imported_files.png')} alt="4_Imported_files.png" />

### Step 5: Resize the rulers

To ensure correct import into the software, we must resize and adjust for laser cutting using Inkscape.

- Create a guide by clicking on the left-hand ruler and dragging to the right.
- A blue guide will appear. Double-click it, set it to 150 mm (5.91 inches), and press enter.
- Resize the ruler so the left side aligns with the document and the right side with the guide.
- Repeat the process for the inch ruler, setting the guide to 6 inches (152.4 mm).


<Image src={import('./5_Guide_set.PNG')} alt="5_Guide_set.PNG" />


<Image src={import('./5_Ruler_resize_cm.PNG')} alt="5_Ruler_resize_cm.PNG" />


<Image src={import('./5_Ruler_resize_in.PNG')} alt="5_Ruler_resize_in.PNG" />

### Step 6: Adjust for laser cutting

If you are laser cutting a mold, ensure the text is flipped to read correctly upon injection.

- Select the part to flip.
- Click the "Flip selected objects horizontally" button at the top of the page.
- Use the "Rotate selection 90°" buttons to make further adjustments if needed.


<Image src={import('./6_Select_item.PNG')} alt="6_Select_item.PNG" />


<Image src={import('./6_Flip_item.PNG')} alt="6_Flip_item.PNG" />


<Image src={import('./6_Rotate_item.PNG')} alt="6_Rotate_item.PNG" />

### Step 7: Add plastic identifier

### Tutorial: Creating Plastic Rulers

#### Step 1: Identify Material
Identify the type of plastic used to manufacture your rulers. This information is crucial for future recycling purposes to determine the correct processing temperatures.

#### Step 2: Import Symbols
- Import the necessary symbol following the procedure used for the ruler files.
- Adjust the import settings provided.

#### Step 3: Set Precision
- Choose "rough" precision to minimize file size while ensuring adequate detail for laser cutting.

#### Step 4: Position the Symbol
- Align and position the symbol as desired on the ruler.


<Image src={import('./7_Import_window.PNG')} alt="7_Import_window.PNG" />


<Image src={import('./7_Imported_identifier.PNG')} alt="7_Imported_identifier.PNG" />


<Image src={import('./7_Adjusted_identifier.PNG')} alt="7_Adjusted_identifier.PNG" />

### Step 8: Add cut outs for the ruler

- Click the Rectangle icon in the left menu to add an outline for the ruler.
- Draw the rectangle around the rulers and set the desired height and width from the top menu.
- Adjust the alignment of the rectangles to ensure the rulers remain visible.
- Select the rectangle and click the "Lower selection to bottom" icon at the top of the screen.
- Repeat the process for the mould's outer border.


<Image src={import('./8_Create_inner_rectangle.png')} alt="8_Create_inner_rectangle.png" />


<Image src={import('./8_Lower_Rectangle.png')} alt="8_Lower_Rectangle.png" />


<Image src={import('./8_Create_outer_rectangle.png')} alt="8_Create_outer_rectangle.png" />

### Step 9: Add fastening items

### Instructions

You need to create holes for wing nuts, bolts, or quick-release clamps.

1. Select the circle icon from the left menu.
2. Draw a circle in the desired location.
3. Adjust the x and y radius from the top menu.
4. Select the circle and duplicate it with CTRL + D.
5. Hold CTRL and move the duplicate to the right for alignment along the x or y axis.
6. Select both top holes, duplicate them, and position them to form the bottom two holes.


<Image src={import('./9_Insert_first_circle.png')} alt="9_Insert_first_circle.png" />


<Image src={import('./9_Insert_second_circle.png')} alt="9_Insert_second_circle.png" />


<Image src={import('./9_Insert_last_circles.png')} alt="9_Insert_last_circles.png" />

### Step 10: Make center mould

- Select all items using the selection tool or by pressing CTRL + A.
- Duplicate all objects by pressing CTRL + D.
- Hold CTRL and move the duplicated objects just below to minimize material waste during laser cutting.
- Delete the rulers and logo by selecting them and pressing delete.


<Image src={import('./10_Select_all.PNG')} alt="10_Select_all.PNG" />


<Image src={import('./10_Duplicate_mould.PNG')} alt="10_Duplicate_mould.PNG" />


<Image src={import('./10_Remove_rulers_and_identifier.PNG')} alt="10_Remove_rulers_and_identifier.PNG" />

### Step 11: Make top mould

- Use selection tools to duplicate the entire center mold.
- Move it downward until the edges touch.
- Delete the center rectangle and replace it with a circle for the nozzle of the injection machine.


<Image src={import('./11_Select_center_mould.PNG')} alt="11_Select_center_mould.PNG" />


<Image src={import('./11_Duplicate_center_mould.PNG')} alt="11_Duplicate_center_mould.PNG" />


<Image src={import('./11_Add_nozzle_circle.PNG')} alt="11_Add_nozzle_circle.PNG" />

### Step 12: Export, laser cut & inject

- Save the file as an .svg by selecting File > Save As, and store it in an easily accessible location.

- Import the file into your CAM software to etch the rulers, inner rectangle, and ID code on the bottom plate, and cut out the remaining lines.

- Tap the threads, then proceed to injection mold using the injection machine.

- Refer to the video by Kunststoffschmiede for detailed instructions on using Plexiglas.

### Step 13: Spread the Love

- Open source requires sharing the source and files.
- Upload them to platforms such as GitHub or GitLab.
- Share your work on our social media.

Darigov Research focuses on open source hardware, software, and education to address local challenges.

Support us through donations or Patreon:

- Donate: [darigovresearch.com/donate](https://www.darigovresearch.com/donate)
- Patreon: [patreon.com/darigovresearch](https://www.patreon.com/darigovresearch)

Visit our [Website](https://www.darigovresearch.com/), [YouTube Channel](https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCb34hWA6u2Lif92aljhV4HA), and follow us on Twitter, GitHub, and Instagram: @darigovresearch

### Step 14: Get started

We've been involved in building machines since Version 2 and are committed to advancing this work and community growth.

If you are interested in purchasing a machine or require our services for research and development, please consider our available products or contact us directly.


<Image src={import('./14_Get_Started.png')} alt="14_Get_Started.png" />